Motorists have been warned to take steps to prevent their cars being damaged by ice as bad weather threatens to batter the UK.
Experts at LeaseCar.uk are warning drivers to act now to prevent ice damage to their vehicles as Britain braces itself for a cold snap.
As temperatures plummet rain water can form icy shards and splinters capable of piercing tyres and causing accidents, the experts have warned.
Ice covered windscreens can also weaken the glass and can even lead to shattering if the window already has chips or other flaws.
It can also leave paintwork more vulnerable to corrosion making a car rust more quickly, the experts have warned.
Prolonged periods of cold weather may also cause tyres to lose pressure and deflate, making journeys more perilous.
Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “It’s important for all drivers to take extra care of their vehicles when during harsh winter weather.
“Most drivers probably underestimate the potential damage which ice in particular can do to a car’s paintwork and tyres.
“We are all aware of the road safety issues around driving on ice but few of us understand how a cold snap can impact our vehicles.
“Luckily there are a few simple steps drivers can take to protect their cars from the worst effects of snow, frost and ice.
“We’re urging all motorists to follow our advice to protect their vehicles from any external damage during the cold snap.”
Here are seven tips to follow from LeaseCar.uk:
- Magnetic windscreen covers
Having a cover on the windscreen can help protect the glass from the build-up of snow and ice in the chilly mornings. They can also protect the screen from shattering, as harsh cold weather can cause breakage if there are chips in the glass.
- Regular car washes
It’s important to make sure your vehicle is clean even during winter weather. Washing the car regularly removes the build-up of dirt and rust from damaging the paintwork.
- Wax
Waxing the car is another way to give your vehicle’s paintwork extra protection against long-term deterioration, as it forms another layer against snow and frost.
- Regularly inflate tyres
Driving in heavy rain and on ice can lead to quicker deflation of tyres, so it’s important to regularly check the tyre pressure. It can also result in internal damage to the engine if you’re driving on underinflated tyres as it will work harder to cope in the winter conditions.
- Park under shelter
If possible, park the car under some shelter to prevent snow from falling directly onto the car’s exterior. It can decrease the chances of winter weather damaging the bodywork.
- Paint protector film
The paintwork can become easily damaged by ice and snow. Paint protector film is a clear wrap that goes on the car to prevent any scratches from the weather from impacting the paintwork. Make sure to get it fitted by professionals to ensure the best protection.
- Wrap up the mirrors
Wing mirrors can become equally damaged as windscreens by frosty weather. Cover them up with screen covers to prevent snow and ice from damaging the glass.
